Barriers Burned Away · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Barriers Burned Away by Edward Payson Roe.
Chapter 1
Dedication
The author dedicates the book to the memory of their mother.
Chapter 2
Preface to the First Edition
The author briefly introduces the inspiration for the story, which arose from the Great Chicago Fire and the desire to draw lessons of Christian faith from the suffering and fortitude of the city's citizens. The narrative focuses only briefly on the fire itself, using historical scenes to emphasize enduring truths.
Chapter 3
Barriers Burned Away
Dennis Fleet, a young man from the countryside, arrives in Chicago seeking work and a new life. He secures a position as a porter at Ludolph's art store, where he meets the beautiful and talented Christine Ludolph. Their initial interactions are marked by social and artistic barriers, as Christine is a refined artist and Dennis is a humble employee. The chapter explores themes of ambition, social class, and the transformative power of art and love.
Chapter 4
I: Love Unknown
In the midst of a fierce December blizzard, the Fleet family faces a crisis. The father, Mr. Fleet, lies ill and bitter, blaming God for a life of disappointment and failure. His wife, Ethel, anxiously awaits the return of their son, Dennis, who arrives safely after a harrowing journey. Dennis's sudden appearance shocks his parents, leading to a dramatic emotional scene where his mother faints and his father's despair nearly overwhelms him. After administering medicine and sharing a meal, the family finds a moment of peace. Ethel, sustained by her spiritual visions of a new heaven and new earth, watches over her sleeping husband and son.
Chapter 5
II: Love Known
In the aftermath of a storm, Ethel Fleet experiences a vision of a glorious afterlife, but is called back to her dying husband's bedside. Through her prayers, Mr. Fleet undergoes a spiritual transformation, confessing his past failures and finding forgiveness in Christ. He dies peacefully, reconciled to God and his family, leaving his son Dennis with a final charge to care for his mother and sisters.
Chapter 6
III: Launched
After Mr. Fleet's death, the family sells their farm and moves to a small house in Bankville. Dennis, buoyant and ambitious, sets off for Chicago, believing it an Eldorado where he can win fortune and fame for his family. His mother, though grieving, finds solace in her faith and encourages him with Christian principles. The chapter contrasts Dennis's naive optimism with the harsh realities of social barriers he will face.
Chapter 7
IV: Cold Water
Dennis Fleet arrives in Chicago with ten dollars and high hopes, but faces a series of rejections as he searches for work. After a discouraging day of failed applications, a lost walk, and a temptation to drink, he retreats to his miserable hotel room, wrestling with self-disgust and disappointment.
Chapter 8
V: A Hornet's Nest
Dennis awakens determined to succeed, writes a guarded letter to his mother, and seeks employment. He is briefly hired by two grocers who rescind the offer upon learning he is staying at Gavin's Hotel, a notorious gambling den. Returning to the hotel, he confronts the bartender, is extorted for five dollars, and is advised by a policeman not to seek redress, leaving him humiliated and bitter.
Chapter 9
VI: “Starve Then!”
Dennis Fleet, desperate for work after his father's death, searches Chicago for employment but faces rejection due to his lack of practical skills. After a near-temptation to work in a barroom, he refuses the job on moral grounds and is told to 'starve then.' He finds cheap lodging in a German boardinghouse and struggles with despair and doubt, questioning God's providence.
Chapter 10
A Good Samaritan
Dennis, feeling despondent and hopeless after his job search fails, encounters Bill Cronk, a rough but kind-hearted drover who offers him sympathy and practical advice. Despite his own flaws, Cronk encourages Dennis to take any honest work, suggesting he shovel snow to earn money. Dennis accepts the advice, and the two share a meal, restoring Dennis's hope and determination.
Chapter 11
VIII: Yahcob Bunk
Dennis, after a night of prayer and Bible reading, gains a new perspective on seeking God's help for earthly needs. He earns money by shoveling snow, secures his lodging, and experiences a shift in fortune through faith and hard work.
Chapter 12
IX: Land at Last
Dennis Fleet, seeking work, clears the sidewalk of the Art Building and witnesses the dismissal of the drunken porter Pat. He applies for the position and, after a frank interview, is hired by Mr. Ludolph. Dennis begins his duties, sleeping in the store, and resolves to serve his employer faithfully while maintaining his own integrity.
Chapter 13
X: The New Broom
Dennis Fleet begins his new job as a porter at Ludolph's art store, finding spiritual contentment and writing to his mother about his faith. He impresses Mr. Ludolph with his artistic eye and willingness to learn, but faces a humiliating test when a clerk orders him to black boots. Dennis handles the situation with dignity, accepting the task while asserting his boundaries, and gradually earns respect through his hard work and taste.
Chapter 14
XI: Too Much Alike
Dennis Fleet is deeply moved by a new painting of a scornful young woman, which arrives at Ludolph's store. He is later startled when Christine Ludolph appears in person, wearing the same dress and expression as the painted figure. Mr. Ludolph and Mr. Schwartz note the strong resemblance between Christine and the painting, while Christine herself is inwardly pleased but outwardly dismissive. Dennis feels embarrassed by his appearance and his intense reaction.
Chapter 15
Blue Blood
This chapter explores Christine Ludolph's background and worldview, shaped by her father's cynical materialism and her own pride in art and social ambition. After a disillusioning romantic experience, she becomes a skeptic of love and embraces her father's philosophy, pledging to help him achieve their shared goal of entering German high society. Meanwhile, Dennis Fleet, now working as a porter in Mr. Ludolph's store, overhears Christine offer to rearrange the store's artistic displays, sparking his admiration and desire to learn from her. The chapter contrasts Christine's cold, worldly upbringing with Dennis's humble, earnest character, highlighting the vast social and ideological barriers between them.
Chapter 16
XIII: Very Cold
Christine returns from New York and resumes her routine, feeling a deep sense of unrest despite her wealth, beauty, and artistic ambitions. She persuades her father to let her rearrange the store artistically, treating employees as machines. Dennis observes her from a distance, fascinated by her beauty and artistic passion, but troubled by her coldness and pride. He dreams of bridging the social gulf between them through his own growing love of art.
Chapter 17
XIV: She Speaks to Him
Christine Ludolph begins to plan a rearrangement of the store, studying its layout and sketching ideas. Dennis Fleet, working as a bootblack, longs to assist her but feels humiliated by his menial role. When Christine finally speaks to him, it is only to ask him to move out of her way, and his awkward response leads to embarrassment. He struggles with wounded pride but resolves to endure his position patiently, trusting Providence for better work.
Chapter 18
Promoted
Dennis Fleet's artistic arrangement of a store display is mistakenly credited to Mr. Berder, but when Mr. Ludolph discovers the truth, he fires Berder for deception and promotes Dennis to Berder's position. Dennis writes a cheerful letter to his mother, who responds with gratitude and a prediction of his future success.
Chapter 19
Just in Time
Mr. Ludolph and Christine discuss Dennis Fleet's character and background, revealing their contrasting views on faith and ambition. The scene shifts to the Bruder family's attic, where Mrs. Bruder, exhausted and starving, collapses in despair. Her husband, Bruder, attempts to sell their last treasured painting to buy drink, but Dennis Fleet arrives just in time to intervene.
Chapter 20
Rescued
Dennis Fleet visits the Bruder family, rescuing Mr. Bruder from despair and potential suicide. He purchases a painting, offers friendship, and arranges art lessons. Dennis also hires Ernst to work at the store, providing material and spiritual support to the struggling family.
Chapter 21
Miss Ludolph Makes a Discovery
Dennis oversleeps after a disturbing night, but is awakened by Christine's beautiful singing. He finds her sketching and they have a tense conversation about his late night and her resemblance to a painted figure. Dennis brings Ernst into the store, and Mr. Ludolph approves. Dennis receives his mother's letter, strengthening his faith. He also advises Mr. Bruder on art, suggesting practical subjects over ambitious ones.
Chapter 22
XIX: What Is the Matter with Him?
Dennis awakens early, determined to avoid needing Christine's musical wake-up call. He prepares for their work together in the showroom, where Christine directs the rearrangement of paintings with authoritative precision. Dennis's intelligence and artistic taste impress her, and she begins to study him as an artistic subject. Their conversation touches on democracy, ambition, and art, with Dennis revealing his aspiration to learn about art. Later, Dennis receives encouragement from Mr. Bruder during a sketching lesson, and reflects on the transformative power of Christian grace, vowing to pray and work for Christine's spiritual awakening.
Chapter 23
XX: Is He a Gentleman?
Dennis Fleet is invited to assist with preparations for a private artistic entertainment at the Winthrop mansion, where he expects to be treated as a gentleman. However, upon arrival, he is snubbed by the young ladies, who refuse to introduce him and treat him as a servant. After overhearing a debate about his social standing—in which Christine Ludolph defends him as a refined, educated man but ultimately upholds European class distinctions—Dennis resolves to endure the humiliation for his family's sake and vows to rise to a position where he will be recognized as a gentleman. The chapter also explores Dennis's growing, unconscious love for Christine and her condescending yet increasingly respectful view of him.
Chapter 24
Christine's Idea of Christians
Christine and her friends prepare for an amateur performance, with Dennis assisting. During a lull, Christine provocatively critiques organized religion, arguing that most Christians follow fashion rather than the Bible's teachings. She declares art, music, fame, and power as her creed. Dennis, though hurt by her unbelief, resolves to counter her views when the opportunity arises.
Chapter 25
Equal to an Emergency
Dennis Fleet presents a fiery cross as a dramatic rebuttal to Christine Ludolph's skeptical views on Christianity, leading to a tense but respectful debate. Later, he proves his musical talent by sight-reading a difficult piece, earning admiration and a grateful glance from Christine, despite continued social slights from Miss Brown.
Chapter 26
The Revelation
At a grand musical and theatrical entertainment, Dennis Fleet and Christine Ludolph perform together, astonishing the audience with their vocal talents. Dennis's heartfelt singing moves the crowd deeply, while Christine, despite technical perfection, feels she fails to touch hearts. After the performance, Dennis experiences a painful revelation: he realizes he is in love with Christine, but sees her waltzing with another man and feels a vast gulf between them. Miss Winthrop thanks Dennis for his Christian witness and offers her friendship.
Chapter 27
Night Thoughts
Dennis Fleet, reeling from seeing Christine in another man's arms at a party, walks the streets in anguish, grappling with his love for her. He realizes the hopelessness of his situation due to their vast social and economic differences, and is further tormented by the religious conviction that they are unequally yoked, as Christine is an unbeliever. After a bitter internal struggle, he submits to God's will and resolves to give up his love. Meanwhile, Christine leaves the Browns' lavish but coarse revel early, disgusted with the evening and with herself, having failed to achieve the deep artistic connection she craves.
Chapter 28
XXV: Darkness
Christine falls severely ill with a high fever, and both she and her father are terrified by the possibility of smallpox. Dennis overhears the doctor's discussion and realizes his love for Christine is beyond his control. He offers his mother as a nurse, and spends the night wrestling with his conscience over the propriety of loving an unbeliever.
Chapter 29
Miss Ludolph Commits a Theft
Christine, recovering from a nervous fear of smallpox, debates with her father about the existence of God and the meaning of suffering. Mr. Ludolph reassures her and promises a future of wealth and travel. Dennis, deeply concerned, sends strawberries anonymously via Ernst. Christine, bored and restless, summons Ernst to sketch him, but he refuses to reveal the sender. The chapter explores Christine's existential crisis and her father's materialistic worldview.
Chapter 30
A Miserable Triumph
Dennis Fleet dedicates himself to painting in the attic of the store, growing thin from intense effort, while Christine Ludolph, recovered from illness, prepares for her own artistic triumph. She becomes distant and absorbed in her work, barely acknowledging Dennis. One morning, two identical paintings arrive at the store, one an original European work and the other a copy made in Chicago. Mr. Schwartz and even the artist Mr. Cornell cannot tell them apart. Christine, who painted the copy, watches with triumph as Dennis, after careful study, seems to solve the puzzle, but she sarcastically challenges him to speak.
Chapter 31
Life Without Love
Christine is devastated after Dennis Fleet's critique reveals her inability to become a great artist. She confesses to Susie Winthrop her despair, her lack of faith, and her cold, pragmatic plan for a marriage of convenience in Germany. Dennis, tormented by the pain he caused, wanders the streets and listens to her mournful music, while Mr. Ludolph plots to restore Christine's pride and practicality.
Chapter 32
XXIX: Dennis's Love Put to Practical Use
Dennis is despondent after criticizing Christine's art, fearing he has lost her regard. He hears her sing with newfound feeling, deepening his love. Christine initially ignores him, but later they have a private conversation where Dennis encourages her artistic potential, sparking hope in her. Their exchange is interrupted, but Christine begins to realize Dennis's love and decides to use it to her advantage, treating him as a means to improve her art.
Chapter 33
The Two Heights
Dennis, in a tumult of hope and fear, decides to paint a two-part picture to express his feelings for Christine. She continues to manipulate him, using his love to study his expressions for her own artistic gain. She invites him to sing at her home, then leads him into society, where she alternately encourages and tortures him with jealousy. Dennis grows pale and thin from the emotional strain and his secret early-morning painting sessions. Christine proposes to her father that they buy and refurbish Mr. Jones's house, using Dennis's help, as a speculative investment and a preparation for her future in Europe.
Chapter 34
Beguiled
Dennis is perplexed by Christine's changed behavior, which oscillates between encouragement and distance. She uses him as a model for her art while beguiling him with ambiguous smiles and words, leading him to believe his love is reciprocated. Miss Winthrop observes Dennis's infatuation but refrains from intervening. Christine's artistic ambition and emotional coldness clash with Dennis's sincere passion, creating a dangerous dynamic.
Chapter 35
Bitter Disappointment
Dennis returns to work at Ludolph's store with renewed hope, believing Christine's interest in him is genuine. He confides in his mother, who prays for Christine's spiritual awakening. Christine, however, is using Dennis as a model for a painting depicting a declaration of love, intending to capture authentic emotion for her art. As she manipulates him to achieve the perfect expression, Dennis confronts her, accusing her of coldly dissecting his heart. He leaves her devastated, disfigured her painting, and warns her that only the noble can achieve true art.
Chapter 36
The Two Pictures
Christine, after Dennis's departure, wrestles with guilt and pride, ultimately hardening her heart. Dennis collapses from exhaustion and is cared for by friends. Christine discovers Dennis's allegorical paintings of her, which depict her spiritual state and potential redemption, leading to deep regret and a longing for truth.
Chapter 37
Regret
Christine, overwhelmed by guilt and grief over Dennis's reported dying condition, attempts to escape her feelings by traveling with her father to New York and West Point. Despite her efforts to lose herself in social distractions, she remains haunted by remorse and the memory of Dennis. Her father observes her forced gaiety and grows more determined to see her shine in Europe, while Christine's internal turmoil leads to a bitter outburst against fate and the idea of God.
Chapter 38
XXXV: Remorse
Christine, consumed by guilt and remorse over her treatment of Dennis, struggles with her emotions while staying at West Point. She isolates herself from her father and society, growing cold and cynical. Despite her pride, she cannot escape the memory of Dennis's pale, reproachful face. She participates in a concert but is overwhelmed by associations with the past, trembling and haunted by her actions.
Chapter 39
An Apparition
Christine, believing Dennis dead, returns to the Art Building and is overwhelmed by memories of him. When Dennis appears alive, she is terrified, thinking him a ghost. Their tense reunion reveals her assumption of his death, leading to bitter words. Later, Dennis recovers, returns to work, and moves his mother to Chicago, while his mother counsels him to pray for Christine and trust in divine providence.
Chapter 40
If He Knew!
Christine, after Dennis's angry departure, experiences a profound emotional awakening. She realizes she loves him but is torn between her feelings and her father's ambitions for her future in Germany. She begins to frequent the store to see Dennis, who avoids her, believing her heartless. Mr. Ludolph, suspicious, hires a maid to spy on Christine. Both struggle with their pride and circumstances, unable to bridge the gap between them.
Chapter 41
The Gates Open
Dennis Fleet, grieving his mother's death and feeling betrayed by Christine Ludolph's apparent indifference, is fired by Mr. Ludolph. Christine, unaware of the treachery of her maid Janette, sprains her ankle and is unable to visit Mrs. Fleet before she dies. Dennis buries his mother and takes his sisters east, then returns to Chicago to find Christine's home filled with revelry on the night of the funeral. He receives a letter of dismissal from Mr. Ludolph, deepening his bitterness. Meanwhile, Christine, believing Dennis despises her, agrees to join Mrs. Von Brakhiem's party traveling west.
Chapter 42
Susie Winthrop Appears Again
The chapter covers the summer and fall of 1871, detailing Dennis Fleet's disciplined artistic preparation for the prize competition, the death of his friend Mr. Bruder, and Christine Ludolph's secret efforts to paint a picture for Dennis after learning of his dismissal and his entry into the competition. It also features the reappearance of Susie Winthrop (now Mrs. Leonard), who reconnects with Dennis and draws out his story.
Chapter 43
Suggestive Pictures and a Prize
At the art exhibition, Dennis and Christine each submit paintings. Dennis's diptych contrasts a worldly, loveless marriage with a pure, selfless union, deeply moving Christine. Christine's painting depicts a woman in longing and despair. The committee awards the prize to Dennis's larger work, revealing him as the winner. Christine, indifferent to the prize, finds her reward in Dennis's reaction.
Chapter 44
XLI: Fire! Fire!
Christine, in despair after Dennis's rejection, resolves never to help him win earthly greatness. Meanwhile, a great fire breaks out, and Dennis rushes to save the Bruder family. Mrs. Bruder perishes after retrieving her husband's portrait. Earlier, at an art exhibition, Dennis wins a prize and is congratulated by Christine, but he coldly rebuffs her. Later, tormented, he wanders to the Ludolph mansion, drawn by conflicting emotions.
Chapter 45
Baron Ludolph Learns the Truth
Dennis Fleet heroically navigates the Great Chicago Fire, saving a woman and her sewing-machine, guiding a lost child through a dark tunnel, and rescuing Miss Brown from a burning mansion. He witnesses Mr. Ludolph's defiant and fatal entry into the collapsing Art Building, which is consumed by flames.
Chapter 46
Christine, Awake! For Your Life!
Dennis, stunned by witnessing Mr. Ludolph's death in the fire, fights through the chaotic crowd to reach Christine. He climbs to her studio balcony, finds her asleep, and wakes her. They flee together through the burning city, encountering surreal and horrific scenes—including a crazed Susie Winthrop singing on a dray. Their escape is blocked by a collapsing building, and Christine faints in Dennis's arms.
Chapter 47
On the Beach
After escaping the fire, Dennis and Christine find themselves on the beach among other survivors. Christine struggles with her disbelief in God amidst the catastrophe, while Dennis tries to comfort her and lead her thoughts toward faith. They face ongoing dangers from the fire and panicked horses, but Dennis remains vigilant and protective. Christine begins to question her own beliefs, moved by Dennis's selfless actions and unwavering faith.
Chapter 48
XLV: “Prayer Is Mighty”—Christine a Christian
On the desolate beach after the Great Chicago Fire, Dennis Fleet persuades Christine Ludolph to kneel in prayer with him, though she remains despairing and unconvinced. He then directs her to comfort a sick German woman; in praying for the woman, Christine suddenly experiences a profound conversion, crying out that God lives and loves her. She thanks Dennis for leading her to this knowledge, and he recalls his mother's words: 'Prayer is Mighty.'
Chapter 49
Christine's Grave
After the fire, Christine tends to a poor German woman and reveals her newfound faith. Dennis finds Dr. Arten, who encourages them to head north. Exhausted, Christine rests in a vacant grave in a Catholic cemetery. During the rainy night, Dennis watches over her. At dawn, they continue northward, and Christine expresses her desire to never be her old self again. They reach Dr. Goodwin's church for relief.
Chapter 50
XLVII: Susie Winthrop
Christine learns of her father's death in the fire and grieves deeply, while Dennis comforts her with Christian faith. They reconcile misunderstandings about past neglect, and Susie Winthrop's haunting song interrupts them.
Chapter 51
Doctor Arten Struck by Lightning
In the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire, Dennis and Christine find Mrs. Leonard (Susie) in a church, suffering from exposure and trauma. Dr. Arten attends to her, and Christine helps care for her friend. Christine expresses her spiritual doubts to Dennis, who comforts her with a Bible story. Dennis secures work as a laborer, and Christine regrets a careless remark. Mrs. Leonard recovers and discusses Christine's feelings for Dennis, revealing that Christine has renounced her title and seeks a simple life with Dennis. Dr. Arten offers Christine paternal support.
Chapter 52
Bill Cronk's Toast
Dennis, weary and discouraged after a day of manual labor, buys a supper for Christine but gives most of it to the starving Bruder children he finds on the street. He brings the orphans to the church where Christine is waiting, and she tenderly cares for them. Later, at a makeshift meal, Bill Cronk offers a clumsy toast to the union of Yankee and German, embarrassing Christine and Dennis but prompting laughter from the group.
Chapter 53
Every Barrier Burned Away
Dennis and Christine visit the ruins of the Art Building where Mr. Ludolph perished, and then her former home. Christine renounces her old life and ambitions, declaring herself a simple American girl. Dennis confesses his love, and Christine reciprocates, declaring that every barrier is now burned away. The chapter concludes with a vision of their future life together, built on love and faith.
